2011...Just Around the Corner

It is now 11:21 PM in Texas, and I have been thinking about 2010. There has been a lot of things happen over the last 12 months. Some happy, some sad...and God has been FAITHFUL through it all. He's always been by our side and has given us strength to face whatever the obstacle. I'm so thankful He has stood by us all the way!

I always get excited when the "old year" is coming to a close. I love the fact that the "new year" has yet to be written on and we have the chance to change those things we want to change, and to strengthen areas of our lives that need to be strengthened. There's a new year getting ready to be born! I already hear fireworks going off from those who are celebrating, and that's alright, but my heart is having it's own "fireworks of anticipation".

We are just 35 minutes away from opening the clean white pages of 2011!

I wonder...what great things will happen this coming year?
I wonder...who will our new granddaughter look like?
I wonder...which backslider will be the first one in the altar this year?
I wonder...how many souls will come to know Him in the fullness of truth?

And...I wonder...will Jesus appear in the clouds and take us all HOME?

What a great year awaits all of us. What are you planning to do with it? I hope you're making God-centered plans for the new year. I want to be better in many things, and I'm going to work towards "being the best I can be".

HAPPY NEW YEAR to all my family and friends! Thank you for another great year of friendships and love. I wish you all the greatest God has for you, and love you more this year than I ever have! YOU are wonderful!

May God bless you in 2011! Let's celebrate His goodness!

I'll leave you with one of my favorite pictures of 2010. In November we were invited to preach for Bro. Huntley in Raleigh, NC, AND he invited us to go hunting with him and is sweet wife, Patsy for a couple of days. Here we all are before heading to the deer stand! By the way...Patsy Huntley shot a deer! It was my first experience of sitting in a deer stand. What fun we had!

Stranger Danger

Sometime in my grogginess this morning I prayed a prayer I have prayed many times. "Lord, keep Jonathan and Brenda, and Andrew and Mandy in the Truth. Don't let anything or anyone turn them away from what they know is RIGHT." I sleepily mumbled and thought nothing more of it. As a parent I have full confidence in my childrens walk with God and know the love for Truth that is in their hearts. But as I have said many times in their growing up years..."I trust YOU, but I don't trust the devil." Our sons are grown men and Pastor two great churches. They are both married to beautiful young ladies that love truth, love God, and love the ways of holiness. I am not worried about their walks with God. I could go to either one of their churches knowing that I would be led in the ways of righteousness and holiness, and I would hear truth preached. I am confident in their relationship with God, but I'm also aware of the "roaring lion that's walking about seeking whom he may devour".

My husband and I were at lunch today talking about this very thing when he made a statement that I will not soon forget. Many times he will say little quips that are simple in thought, but deep in meaning and this was another time his words caught my attention. He said: "The devil always wears a smile." That's it! He said it without fanfare. He wasn't in a "preaching tone". He just said it and he didn't have to say much more to impact me.

Satan is in the business of deception, and he's a good salesman! If you're not aware of what he's doing he will sink his deceptive claws into your spirit so gently that you will not even feel the tearing of your heart, then lead you straight into false doctrine that is deadly. After he has done his damage to you he quietly walks away chuckling to himself, and goes searching for another victim to take to hell with him. His prime target is the ministry and their families. If he can get them to fall he knows there will be untold hundreds of people that will be affected. They might even question God if their Pastor/Preacher goes astray! He "smiles" to himself and says, "Yeah...let me get my hands on the ministry and their children and I will destroy the church of the living God!" Slowly, meticulously, he works, and "smiles" his way into the hearts of those we love and we sometimes stand by watching, because we are too busy in our own world and really don't want to get "involved"!

I saw a video clip on a friends Facebook page this morning that really got me to thinking, along with some other things the Lord quickened to my spirit. It was a "staged abduction of a child" and over a period of several hours NO ONE stopped to help. Finally, someone took action and decided they needed to DO SOMETHING! It's not only the child that is being abducted "on the street" that should concern us, but our children are being "abducted spiritually". Are we going to walk by those who are being abducted by the deceptive spirits walking around "with a smile on their face" and do nothing? Children are in danger! They are crying for our help! Can we HEAR them?

Listen...listen closely...

"Someone please help me! I'm reaching for you! I'm asking for your help. Please don't shake your head and sigh as if there is nothing you can do, then keep walking! You give me no hope when you act as if nothing is wrong. How am I suppose to act when I am approached? What am I suppose to do? What am I suppose to say? How do I protect myself? Please be open to my call for help! Please stop and get involved! If you don't help me, then who will?"

I appeal to all of us today to STOP and GET INVOLVED in the salvation of the generation following us! They are counting on US! I want to be saved and I want my children and grandchildren dancing on the streets of gold with me. I will not sit idly by and do NOTHING!

Christmas Memories 2010

Today has been a quiet day in my house. It feels so empty! Empty of decorations, empty of laughing little girls, empty of banging pots and pans in the kitchen as our daughters work to keep it all picked up, empty of deep "men voices" discussing things of interest. Yes, my house has felt empty, but my heart is full of all the love and memories we have from this week of Christmas! There is nothing like having our children and grandchildren home for the holidays!

It has been FOUR YEARS since "the kids have come home for Christmas". The last Christmas we had in our home was in Wichita Falls! Since we share with the girls families every other year, the last Christmas the kids were suppose to be with us, we were living in our motorhome, so WE went to the kids house (Jonathan and Brenda's) and had our "family Christmas" there. We had a great time! But, this year I was REALLY ready to have Christmas in our home! If you could have seen inside my heart you would have been able to see a little girl jumping up and down with excitement! I could hardly wait to hear the door bell ring and to open it to excited, happy, smiling little girls and feel their arms around my neck! I couldn't wait to hug my grown sons and their sweet wives (our daughters) and to hear...."Hello Mom!" Yes! I was excited and standing beside me was my husband who was like a little boy. I could almost see him shifting from side to side, not able to stand still because he was just as excited as I was!

We had a wonderful time in our "new smaller home" this year. I was concerned that it might be too small, but everyone got moved in to "their" room, and was happy. As the week went on I told Wendell that I kind of liked having a smaller house, because everyone had to be in the same area of the house...most of the time! I love being "together"! I am sharing with you some of our pictures from this past week. My heart is full and running over with thankfulness for another year of blessings and happiness!

Wendell read "The Christmas Story"
My Mother's Bible
The granddaughters listened intently
Ashlyn placed Jesus in the Manger
Here is one happy, spoiled, loved Papa
And...a HAPPY Mimi and PapaWhere's Santa???? Here he is!
Opening gifts began







God BLESSED us with FOUR granddaughters after us having TWO sons! Now, the doctor says the baby that's on its way is another GIRL! FUN! FUN! FUN!

Several years ago we decided to give the parents of these awesome little girls, money. But, I cannot write a check, put it in a card and hand it to them at Christmastime! For me, part of Christmas fun is opening gifts, so I try to figure out a way to give the adults their "money gift" so they have several packages to open.

Andrew is giving me that "look" like, "Mom, what are you up to now? I can't hardly wait to open it!" LOL! I have to admit that I have a lot of fun shopping for these "little gifts". In fact, I was standing in the aisle of one store trying to figure out what to do when one of the ideas came to me and I started laughing just thinking about the reaction. I had spotted what I call a "Shower Foo-Foo" and decided right then and there that I would get a bunch of $1.00 bills and fold them up real small and stick them in the "foo-foo ball". So, I did! I took 50 of those little bills and made a "money ball". I think I have more fun than they do figuring it all out! Although, I'm SURE they enjoy the money. I always seem to come up with different ideas from year to year. I'm hoping I don't run out of ideas very soon! There were more "money gifts" to follow on this night, but it would take too long to tell you all about it.

I think Jonathan got his gift opened first.

"Great idea, Mom!"

Jonathan counting his money...making sure it was all there.
Andrew got all of his...
Mandy seeing what she got. By the smile I see, I know I've done well. :)

Brenda's happy!
I love gifts!

"Santa" even gets to open a gift...or two.

The "traditional ending" of a great night!Evening Christmas Dinner. Totally relaxed and thankful...
Another year has swiftly passed, and God has been FAITHFUL once again! Thank you, Lord! And, thank you our wonderful family for such an awesome time this year!

Mimi...What If...

It has been a "hustle, bustle time of year" around our home, and we have enjoyed our family being with us so very much. I will post pictures and a post later, but our little Ashlyn, three years old said something to me as she was getting ready to get in the car to leave to go home with her parents that will not leave me alone. After all of the gifts she received for Christmas her little mind went back to the "real reason for it all." I can hear her little voice as she asked..."Mimi, what if we were all in one room and all of us opened just one present, then...JESUS walked in?" I answered by saying, "Oh, Ashlyn that would be AWESOME! That would be a whole lot better than Santa Claus, huh?" And to that she replied, "Yes, ma'am!"

As this day has been passing by I find myself in the quiet of my home. The kids are gone back to their homes, my Christmas decorations are all put away, and my house is clean, so I am relaxed and pondering over the Christmas holiday, and Ashlyn's voice keeps resounding in my mind.

I sat down at my desk to do some updating on my computer and decided to check the blog world. My sister, Ronda posted the other day about the song that follows.



Out of all the new "things" Ashlyn received for Christmas she brought me back to the reality of what it's all about. JESUS...you're the real reason for it all. Help me remember in my "grown up world" to welcome you into the activities of life, because..."Of all the gifts I may receive, there’s only one I really need. And it’s Your presence, Your presence for Christmas."

Christmas Fun

The last few days has been so much FUN with our family at home! We are having a great time being together. Laughing, talking, eating, playing games, relaxing, and just being together is what it's all about! I hope you're all having a wonderful time celebrating the birth of our Savior, and showing love to each member of your family and your friends. RELATIONSHIP is what matters MOST in life. Thank you for your love and friendship through the years.

Here's a sweet picture that will bring a smile to your face. These are our four granddaughters on Christmas morning as they were waiting to open their stockings from "Santa".

(L-R). Savanna, Alayna, Scarlet, and Ashlyn.

HOME...SWEET...HOME

I wanted to stop by today and say I am SO HAPPY to be HOME! We have been gone a lot, so today I am decorating for Christmas! God has been good to us as we traveled from the roads of America, and we are thankful for His protection. Today, I am thankful once again for His love and mercy to us.

I will be back in awhile to write some more, but just let me say...I'm HAPPY and THANKFUL!

Dear friends and family...Thank you for all the prayers and support this month!

LOVE YOU ALL!

Angela Martin Hurt

It is with sadness that I make this post. You can go to the following link to view The obituary for Angella. There is also a Memorial video.

Integrity Funeral Home

Please be in prayer for her family. Thank you all...my dear friends.

Shocked...but not in despair

I don't know where to start, and if I get started I don't know where to stop. It seems like all my days and nights have run together since the beginning of November. We have been from California to North Carolina and driven around 9,000 miles! We have been shocked by the death of our brother Royce Elms, then early this morning we received another call that the daughter of Elroy and LaJoyce Martin (writer/speaker) was killed in an auto accident. Angela was 41 years old. For those who know our family you know that Elroy Martin is a first cousin to my husband. We are so sad for Elroy and LaJoyce! Please pray for the "peace of God" to come to them during this terrible time.

It seems like lately I have been using my blog for updates on those who have been called out of this life. Heaven is definitely going to be a wonderful place! When we all gather around the throne we're going to have a wonderful time. Our hearts grieve, and our eyes fill with tears, but we have a HOPE that is far beyond this life. I want to be ready when He calls me home or when the trump of God sounds!

Will you meet me there?

REV. ROYCE ELMS - Service Arrangements

FAMILY and FRIENDS VISITATION

Wednesday - 5:00-9:00 p.m.

LOCATION

Jubilee Apostolic Church
5804 Erik Dr.
Amarillo, TX

HOME GOING SERVICE

Thursday - 1:00 p.m.

LOCATION

The Church at Quail Creek
801 Tascosa Rd.
Amarillo, TX

Rector Funeral Home
2800 S. Osage
Amarillo, TX 79103
Phone: 806-374-1500

Heavy Heart

We are on our way home from spending time with David and Linda in North Carolina, so I'm sitting in our hotel room writing. My heart is heavy with sadness. We received a phone call that once again changed "life" for the Elms Family. My husband's brother, Royce suddenly passed away Saturday evening. We are all reeling from the shock of losing such a great brother, friend, encourager, and preacher of the gospel!

Many friends have called or texted this evening. You have brought strength to our hearts. We know God is in control and we totally trust Him. Thank you for your continued prayers for the family. We appreciate you and love you more than you know!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING 2010

To all the wonderful people in my life...HAPPY THANKSGIVING! You have been an inspiration to me as you've walked through life with me. Thank you for being true friends! To all my family that happens to read this today, KNOW that I love you more than I can express! You have been there for me through the years and I'm so thankful! I hope you all have a blessed day! Let's all remember to THANK GOD for HIS ABUNDANT BLESSINGS in our lives!

We are in North Carolina with the David Elms Family. It's been MANY years since we've been able to spend any holiday with them, and we are thankful it has worked out this year. We are having a fun and relaxing time just "being together". We will be traveling home in a few days. When we arrive I will decorate the house, and start preparing for Christmas. I know many have already decorated for Christmas, but I just can't bring myself to decorate until after Thanksgiving. I admit it would be nice to already have it done, but...I guess I'm still a "little old fashioned". :) I can't seem to get in the Christmas spirit until I've "given thanks" during the Thanksgiving Season.

I love this time of year! All the festivities, lights, songs, and many friends and family we get to enjoy. My blessings are too numerous to list! I thank God for His ever-lasting love and mercy in my life. When I think of His goodness I just have to sing:

Thank you Lord for saving my soul.
Thank you Lord for making me whole.
Thank you Lord for giving to me.
Thy great salvation so rich and so free.

Then I feel another song come springing from my heart:

Just want to tell you...I'm thankful for ALL you have done.
For the stars and the moon light, and the setting sun.
When my work on earth is through, I'm coming home to be with you.
Just want to tell you, I'm thankful that's all.

I hope you all are surrounded by friends and family today. If you have lost a loved one this year I trust you will feel the gentle arms of Jesus holding you and bringing you peace. You are not alone!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE! ENJOY YOUR DAY!

Bro. C.M. Becton's Service

Today, we attended the "Home Going Service" of a great man, Bro. Becton. If you did not get to attend and would like to see the service you can go to:

http://www.firstchurchmedia.com/archive.html

It was a wonderful service and you will enjoy it. Another soldier has gone home! Bro Becton will be missed!

"Revival Continues"

A few weeks ago we had the privilege of preaching in Ranger, TX. I wrote about the little guy that made me happy by his statement, "Sometimes I crack myself up", but I haven't had a chance to write about being with Pastor and Sis. Gunstanson.We had a lovely time with them. Prior to that Sunday we had never had the opportunity to be around the Gunstanson's, except for Youth Camps and Camp Meeting. At those times everyone is hurrying here and there taking care of "duties" and we don't have a chance to "talk", so we looked forward to being with them in church and having Sunday dinner with them.

While sitting in the adult Sunday School class I looked at the familiar surroundings. We had been in the Ranger church many times through the years so we felt very much at home. As I looked around I noticed a sign hanging at the front of the church, and liked it! It said, "Revival Continues". I loved the positive statement of revival! But, what caught my attention was the couple sitting by the sign. What I saw spoke volumes to my heart!Bro. and Sis. Barnhill have been in the Ranger UPC church for as long as I can remember. They have been faithful through the years and have been friends to every Pastor and his family who have been there. They have helped raise Pastor's children, including our own granddaughters, Savanna and Scarlet. During the seven years Jonathan and Brenda were in Ranger as the Pastor they could count on Bro. and Sis. Barnhill to help them with the girls at any time. The Barnhills have stood by every Pastor and been an encouragement to them along with all the other saints. I have great gratitude for these lovely people. So, as I sat there looking at that sign and looking at the couple who was sitting in their familiar pew, my mind started working.

The reason REVIVAL CONTINUES in any church...is because there is a Pastor who loves his people and the work of God, and there are FAITHFUL SAINTS who love God, their Pastor, and their church! They have given their lives to keeping the doors of their church open year after year. They have supported their Pastor through the years, standing with him through every situation with love and support. They love each other and want to see the lost come to know Jesus. They never get tired of living for God. God, is their LIFE! They know when things do not seem to be going "right", they take it to the Lord on their knees, praying until the windows of Heaven open and God's blessings are once again poured out on their church! Yes...REVIVAL CONTINUES because faithful saints and men of God who work together to see it happen!

Bro. and Sis. Gunstanson...thank you for inviting us back to a very special place and allowing us to worship with you. You are doing a wonderful job leading your church into Continued Revival. The worship and praise, the depth of prayer, and the presence of God we felt while there in Sunday Worship will not be forgotten. You were a blessing to us!

Another Soldier Called Home

To say we've been "traveling" a lot lately is almost an understatement! We have literally driven from Texas to California, back to Texas, then to North Carolina. I am now sitting in Atlanta, Georgia on our way back to Texas. This time, "going back to Texas" is not for a happy reason. We have lost a very special man of God, and we are very sad!

God decided to call Bro. C.M. Becton home last night. When my husband's phone rang and he saw it was Bro. Richard Flowers calling, we knew why he was calling. My heart sank as my husband confirmed what we "already knew". Everyone I know loves Bro. Becton. Everyone has a story to tell about him. I love hearing every one of them. He made everyone feel special and like you were the one he loved the most!

For many years Bro. Becton has come to our church in Wichita Falls to minister to our congregation. We were so honored to have Bro. and Sis. Becton in our church and home. There are no words that can describe Bro. Becton. The only way I can describe him is by telling you a short dream I had many years ago.

"We were at a General Conference. Wendell and I were walking over for the service and as we walked I looked over and noticed Bro. Becton was beside us. When he turned and saw we were there, he said to us... "Well...hello there. How have you been doing?" That's all he said, but his voice was so kind that I not only heard Bro. Becton's voice...I SAW Jesus". From the moment I had that dream until now, everytime I thought about Bro. Becton, or saw him at a meeting I felt I was seeing Jesus. Bro. Becton was definitely a GREAT MAN OF GOD! Love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance....Bro. Becton had the "fruit of the Spirit" and it was seen by all. Oh...how we will miss his kind voice and words. We will miss the times he danced across the front of the congregation bringing about a move of the Holy Ghost that had not yet happened in the service. We will miss the "Word from God" he gave us during deep moves of the Holy Ghost! Yes...we will MISS BRO. BECTON more than our hearts can express! The only thing that makes sorrow in this life easier to bear is the fact that we will all be together again! I just feel it won't be long until we're praising around the throne, together!

We will load the car in the morning and keep traveling so we can be at the service where Bro. Becton will be honored. There is no possible way to give him the honor he deserves. But...we will do our best! The best way I think that all of us can honor him will be if we will "follow in his steps" and love his God with all our hearts, mind, soul, and strength. Love the Truth that Bro. Becton loved. Love "holiness unto the Lord" as he loved it. I think this would be the only way that we could honor this great man! Words will not be enough...but "living our lives so that others can see Jesus" would please Bro. Becton more than anything.

Bro. Becton...rest well...and we will see you "in the morning"!

Rev. Cleveland M. Becton

My heart is heavy at the loss of Bro. C.M. Becton! He has made it HOME! Oh, how we will miss him in our lives, but it won't be long before we will see him again!


From the Family:

Funeral Arrangements for Rev. C. M. Becton are as follows:

Viewing - Friday, November 19 from 6 PM to 8 PM
Funeral Service - Saturday, November 20 at 10 AM
Internment to follow service at New Hope Memorial Gardens in Sunnyvale, TX

Both viewing and service will be held at Emmanuel Pentecostal Church in Mesquite, TX. For lodging information for out-of-town guests, it will be forthcoming on our church website at www.epcmesquite.com.

There is Hope

Today while going about my business and taking care of a lot of things that had to get done, I was listening to Sirius Radio in the car. I got tired of listening to the news and all the harsh voices as they discussed and argued over what a political person did "right or wrong", and as they discussed about a crime someone had committed. You know what I'm talking about, I'm sure! It's enough to get on a very sensitive nerve and stay on it until you want to scream back at the radio! In my state of frustration over the affairs of the world, I decided to turn the channel to Enlighten. I know...some people can't stand Southern Gospel music, but that is neither here nor there. The fact is that as I was listening and enjoying thoughts of peace and joy that I have knowing "this world is not my home", there were two songs that really caught my attention. I heard a quartet singing an old hymn that I've sung many times when my husband was giving an altar call. The familiar words filled my ears. "Coming home! Coming home! Never more to roam. Open wide Thine arms of love. Lord, I'm coming home." I looked at the display on my dash that would tell me who was singing, and saw the name of the song that was being sung, but it wasn't what I was expecting. It said: "The Apple Tree Song". Huh? What was that suppose to mean? By now, Sirius Radio had my attention!

The song happened to have a narration about a young man who had become rebellious and had to leave home. Really, it was a "tear jerker", but I kept listening. When the boy left home he asked his parents that "if at anytime it was okay for him to come back home, would they please tie a white cloth in the tree?" They lived next to a railroad track where trains passed everyday. He knew he would sometime ride the train by the house and would be able to see the "Apple Tree" in the front yard. If there was a white cloth hanging on it he would know he was welcome to "Come Home". One day as he was nearing the house he got really nervous, and a gentleman on the train with him noticed. He spoke to him and asked what it was that he was so anxious about. He was a minister and wanted to help him. The young man told him this story then said, "Sir, can you please look out the window and see if you can see a tree with a white cloth hanging in it?" The gentleman wiped the fog from the window and broke out into a smile. He said, "Son, not only is there a white cloth hanging on the tree, but it has white blossoms all over it! There are white cloths hanging all over that tree, and there is an elderly couple standing under the tree waving at this train! Son, your parents are waiting for you to "Come Home"!"

I could picture that elderly couple waving at the train. I could feel their heartbeat as they looked for the son who had left "home" so many years before! I was living in that story! Then I heard another quartet start singing "Forgiven Again"! Yes, I knew at that moment I would be writing this tonight!

I was talking to my sister Karla today, and we were discussing someone who has been away from God. I made the statement..."Until they are no longer living....there's still HOPE!"

I am writing to tell someone...THERE'S STILL HOPE! It doesn't matter what you have done...THERE'S STILL HOPE! It doesn't matter how long you've been away from God...THERE'S STILL HOPE! Please listen to the voice of God...He is standing with open arms waiting for you to COME HOME! Don't let your pride keep you from "coming home". Clear the fog away from the window of your heart and look! You will see the "White Welcome Cloth" hanging from the Old Rugged Tree!

...softly and tenderly Jesus is calling...

An Amazing Little Girl

Over the last few weeks I have noticed the following video as I was on Facebook. I skipped over it several times, then when it kept showing up I decided that there must be something really special about it. Oh my word! I cannot believe this little girl. She is amazing! Since some of you who read my blog are not on Facebook, I want to share this with you. ENJOY!

The story of Jonah from Corinth Baptist Church on Vimeo.

Home...

We have driven many miles over the last several days. God has been good to us and given us a safe journey. We had a wonderful time in California with family and friends, but we are happy to be home for a few days. I have a lot to write about, but it has to wait for now. I just wanted to let everyone know that we have made it "safe and sound". If you breathed one tiny prayer for us, THANK YOU! In a few minutes I will lay down and go to sleep with thankfulness in my heart. There is nothing like being home in my own bed!

Tiny Sparrows

We just pulled out of Lordsburg, NM. We had stopped to fill the car with fuel then on over to McDonald's to get a snack. When we pulled up to McDonald's we noticed a small stream of water coming from a rubber tube in the ground and big black birds were enjoying the refreshing water as they drank and showered, basking in the warmth of the sun. Upon getting back in the car, my husband took off the top piece of bread on the filet of fish he was going to eat and threw it out for the birds to eat. We thought the black birds would swarm the bread, but they were too busy to notice anything had changed around them. Then, out of nowhere we saw a tiny sparrow fly in and take ownership of the bread. Before we got out of the parking lot, there were several more "tiny sparrows" that had joined the feast. As we drove away the words of Jesus came to my mind and I turned to my husband and said, "If I see the sparrow that falls....how much more...."

Rusty Goodman use to sing a song entitled, "HOW MUCH MORE". This song tells how much Jesus really loves US.

If he knows when a Robin, falls from his nest, And he grieves... when he sees it die.

If he kisses the rose, with the morning mist, How much more, does he love you and I?

If he cares for the lilies, in an open field, and caresses each petal w/ dew.

If he acknowledges a tree, when the winds make it kneel, how much more does he love me and you?

If he takes out the tide, turns the desert from it's dry, And carves out rivers to sea.

Just to give a little brim, one more place to swim. How much more does he love you and me?

If he's prepared a place, for all that has been. I've been told and believe it's true.

He's preparing me a place I cannot comprehend. That's how much he really love me and you.

How much more than a fragrant rose, that he gives life In the spring.

Or does he love me less, than the bird in a nest, That never sows... yet he soars on the wing

If he can speak a word, and calm an angry wind, And Peace be still, can calm a rolling sea.

Then he can speak peace be still, to the storms that's within. That's how much he really loves me.

My friend...What are you worried about? What is it you've been needing God to take care of? Don't you think since He sees the tiny sparrow that falls, that He sees you as you stumble and fall? Take courage! He is watching you and will take care of your need!

Think on these things...

His greatness...
His love...
His mercy...
His care...

You're not alone...He's right beside you...

On the Road

I'm stopping by for a few words tonight. I do not have the time to write about all that has been going on this weekend, so I will just say we have had an incredible time in Los Angeles with Bernard and Sandy Elms as we celebrated their 40 Year Church Anniversary. I will write about it more when I can post a few pictures.

We are on our way home. I hated to leave all our loved ones that live in California! It makes me sad thinking we won't see them for quite some time, but we must journey on. This month is very busy for us, but I really wouldn't have it any other way.

I trust you will have a great week! If you think of it when you pray, please breathe a prayer for us while we are on the road. We want God's hand of protection on the highways. Tonight we came very close to a situation that could have involved us, but His hand kept us safe. I'm thankful!

May the blessings of the Lord be upon you! I'll "see" you again, soon!

An Unexpected "Life Lesson"

While eating Sunday dinner with Pastor and Sis. Gunstanson in Ranger, and some folks from their church who had brought a little boy with them to eat with us, my husband and I were very impressed at how mannerly this little guy was. We mentioned this to each other, then I spoke to him and mentioned how quiet he had been through the meal. For a six year old to sit and eat and be so quiet and mannerly was really heart-warming! I started asking him questions and when he answered I listened attentively. This little guy held such a good conversation about dinosaurs, trains, and trucks, that I found myself captivated by all the "interesting things" he talked about. At one point in his telling me things he enjoyed and holding conversation with Sis. G, the Pastor's wife, he got tickled and said, "Sometimes I crack myself up!" He then asked Sis. G. if she ever "cracks herself up". I sat there and enjoyed his laughter, because he was REALLY "cracked up" over what he had said. I then told him that sometimes "I crack myself up". When I said that he got so tickled and as he laughed it became contagious. We laughed together for awhile and his words were forever printed in my mind.

Today I have thought about my "little friend" and what made him so delightful. He was mannerly, a good conversationalist, interesting, and SO enjoyable. At his young age he has already learned about things that I would have never been interested in, but coming from him I found myself being drawn into his conversation. I really don't remember much about what he said when he spoke of "dinosaurs, trains, and trucks", but I was reminded once again of a life changing principle when he said "I sometimes crack myself up". This one thing, if learned, can change your life.

Many people have never learned to "crack themselves up"! In other words...laugh at themselves. They get angry when they make a mistake, and in their embarrassment act in such a negative way that they embarrass you, and themselves even more, because they reacted so "childish"! I'm thinking that "acting childish" is really "acting adultish". "Acting adultish people" do not throw their head back and laugh at themselves. We would do well to heed a child's "advice" and "crack ourselves up"!

Sunday afternoon, at New York Hill Restaurant, a few miles from Ranger, TX is a time I'll always cherish.

"Thank you "little friend" for your great conversation at Sunday Dinner and for the "life lesson" I hadn't thought about in awhile. I hope when you are 16, 26, 36, or 106 that you will still be "cracking yourself up" and enjoying life! Life will come against you as you "grow up", and you will have stress. There may be times that nothing "makes sense", but if you will trust God and keep "cracking yourself up" you'll make it through any situation you face. I am looking forward to another time when we can once again sit and talk. I have a feeling that we'll find ourselves "cracked up"...and that'll be alright with me."

New Kind of Feeling

I'm going to say right up front that I'm sure there's not too many people that will understand what I'm going to write. Now...I've really got your curiosity up! It's really no big deal, but to me a "new kind of feeling" hit me this week.

As you all know, I LOVE to TRAVEL! I'm also one that doesn't get too attached to my houses. Ok...I can hear some of you ladies now as you catch your breath, and I see you shaking your heads! Unlike most ladies I have known in my life, I actually have no problem letting someone come into my kitchen and allowing them to organize it the way they think it ought to be done. I have moved several times and I always welcomed the help of unloading boxes and putting things away. I guess one reason why it didn't bother me to have someone else "organizing my kitchen" is I knew I could go into my kitchen and put things where I wanted them, if I wanted it different.

When we moved into our last house in Wichita Falls I had two interior decorators come in and decorate it. They asked me what I liked, and my answer to them almost made them faint! I said, "You know...I really don't know what I want. I just want you to decorate my house. I want it to be beautiful and when I walk in I want to like it!" They couldn't believe I wasn't going to tell them what I wanted. I figured that's what interior decorators were FOR! I had too many other things on my mind to have to worry about decorating a house! Are ya'll still breathing????? They were thrilled that they had free-reign in my house, and were so kind to tell me that if I didn't like something I could take it down, put it in the corner, and they would pick it up! I did exactly that. They left a price list of all the things they used and I decided what I wanted and didn't want! It was GREAT!

When I moved to Lufkin and bought a smaller house I was so afraid all my pretty things I had bought 3 years earlier would not fit. I was very surprised when most everything I bought, flower arrangements included, fit beautifully!!! Talk about excited! I was one happy lady! Some of my furniture did not work, but that was okay, because we were starting a brand new "style of living" in our "patio home". It is very cozy and I enjoy opening the blinds in the morning to look outside at the beautiful trees, and I love watching as the birds and squirrels play around the trees. I've even had beautiful humming-birds at my bird feeder! It's a very lovely setting and it brings peace to my mind.

Now for that "new kind of feeling" I have been experiencing...

As I walked through my house this week, I realized that I am really getting attached to it! I've talked to ladies through the years that they HATED being away from home, and to be very truthful, I really didn't understand it! Any time I could be on the road for a few days seeing the beauty God created was always wonderful to me. Now...this week, I had a "lonely feeling" go through my heart when I thought about leaving my HOUSE! I'm still trying to decide if I like that or not. As much as we travel I really don't want to start wanting to be home when we have to be gone!

I wonder if the way I've been feeling is how we all should feel about the "home" we have never seen before. Somehow, I get a "new kind of feeling" when I think about the "home" that is waiting for us, and I feel "homesick" to go. I've been traveling here a long time, and have friends and family that are waiting for me. Jesus is also there and He's wanting to see me. This "new kind of feeling" that surrounded me this week is making me think a little differently now. I understand a little better what the "longing for my eternal home" feels like.

Daddy and Mother used to sing a song that I have loved through the years. I can still hear their voices from the living room as they sang:

I've got a longing. I'm homesick to go!
To a land without heartache, no sorrow, or woe.
There's nothing but trouble in this world below.
I'm homesick for Heaven, I've got a longing to go!

There voices were strong and I could feel the passion they had for Heaven. Then Mother went into a different tempo and they continued:

Lord, when are you coming?
Lord, I've waited so long.
Come and get me Jesus.
Lord, I want to go home.

Footsore and weary. Lonesome and blue.
Homesick for Heaven and my Savior, too.
I've been reading my Bible.
'Bout a land beyond the blue.
Come and get me Jesus.
Lord, I want to go home.

I love the words to that song! But, more than the words I LOVED the presence of God I felt as they lifted their voices as one. Yes, I've got a "new kind of feeling", but now that I think about it, it just might be more about Heaven than it is about my "earthly home".

The Ordering of Steps

Today started out to be a "normal" day, but there was something special planned for us! I believe, as most of you do, that our "steps are ordered by the Lord".

At noon, Wendell and I went to lunch, as is our routine. We had a good, lunch, then sat back and waited for the waitress to bring our ticket so we could pay out. After the last refill of tea she told us that our lunch had been paid for by an "Anonymous" person. We were surprised! Whoever it was...if that person happens to read my blog I want you to know that we appreciate the gesture of kindness and love. THANK YOU!

We got up from the table, and while my husband was talking to a friend, who had come in while we were eating, I stepped outside to get warm. The sunshine felt so good! As I stepped outside, I passed a lady coming into the restaurant. I knew she was a Pentecostal lady and I was almost sure I had seen her before. We spoke, and she went on inside. I stood outside waiting for my husband. He never came out! The friend he had been talking to had been gone for awhile, so I figured he was talking to someone else. I slowly made my way back into the restaurant, and saw my husband enjoying conversation with a man. I knew he had to be the ladies husband I had spoken to earlier. I was right! Just as I stepped up to my husband, this lady joined her husband and we met. That was the beginning of several hours of conversation today.

I'll get back to the "story" in a minute, but I want to say...One thing I absolutely love about being where we are at this time in life are the many opportunities we have to meet minister's and wives. I love making new friends and I treasure those times very much. Anytime we can be with minister's and their families, I am happy!

Back to "today"...We stood and talked for a long time, until we were invited to "sit down and visit" with our "new friends". I chuckle to myself because I can hear those who know me real well say, "you were invited out of self-defense"! :-) Let me just say that what started out a "lunch with my husband" turned out to be "an afternoon of fellowship.

Missionary David and Kathy Brott from the Philippines made their way into our hearts during those several hours of sitting in Cotton Patch, and later at Olive Garden. I'm really glad that their evening appointment with a pastor did not work out. I know they would have loved sharing their burden with a Pastor and his church, but getting to be with these wonderful people today was just what God ordered for us. Thank you, Bro. and Sis. Brott for welcoming us into your life. We enjoyed the "visit"!
Sis. Brott and I talked, and talked, and talked, and talked! We found out we have a whole lot "in common".
When you are both married to men who are preacher's of the gospel, and you have been in full-time ministry for many years with your husband, AND have grown children, AND grand-children, AND go to General Conferences, AND travel, and...and...and...I think you know what I'm saying...you do have a LOT "in common". We serve the same God, believe the same doctrine, love living a life that is pleasing to the Lord, love people, love friends, love...love...love... It's just so refreshing and FUN to have so much to talk about to a "new friend".

In the family of God we really should never meet a stranger! We're all in this TOGETHER! It's beautiful to experience and enjoy the freedom of friendship. No big "I's" and little "You's"! We are all working together to see God's work go forward. We are all heading to the same place that is out of this world. We are all looking for "His glorious appearing and listening for the sound of the trumpet"! Yes, I love making "new friends", and the thing I love about it all is that someday we will ALL be together "forever".

God bless all of our missionary's and their families, at home or abroad! You are some of my HEROES!

Winds Blow...Then...Lay Down

We have experienced wind blowing this week! WIND! Some love it, others hate it! I'm one that doesn't like it when it's blowing hard, but enjoy a breeze especially if it's hot and humid. My husband does NOT like wind! Our daughter-in-law, Mandy loves it! She said "it makes me feel carefree, like I'm riding a motorcycle"! My Mother loved it when she was sheltered in her house, and she could open her windows and "hear it whistling" around the eaves of the house. As you see, everyone has different feelings and opinions about this part of nature. But, when a "life wind blows" and it feels like it's going to "blow your house down", I think I can safely say that all of us would rather have a "calm day".

A short time ago I wrote a post about "Praise Him Anyhow". Today, while reading what I wrote, I realized I was "writing to ME". The last few weeks I had a "wind come along and blow". It wasn't a "fierce wind", but one that definitely got my attention. I was "pre-warned" by the Weather Man of life, but didn't realize what it was all about until later. As I was trying to figure out what the "wind warning" was all about I was given another "heads up" from another source. I prayed, but even in my praying I felt "out of control" and "fearful"! Today, I decided I better turn it over to the "Master of the Wind" and I'm thankful that while on my knees I felt a "calm in the midst of the storm". It's as if God stepped on my boat and said, "PEACE! BE STILL!" He didn't have to yell at the "wind", all He did was "speak" in a clear, soft, voice, and the "wind" decided it better obey.

So, as I write a few words to encourage someone today, I am happy to say that no matter the "winds" that are blowing in your life, you can invite the Master to "speak to the wind of fear" and you will have PEACE!

"Jesus, please touch each situation today! You know the "winds" that are blowing in each life. You know how to control it, and bring peace to the minds of your people."

In Jesus Name...let it be so!

Special Birthday Wishes

Today is another SPECIAL DAY in my life! It was 36 years ago today that I became a Mother for the first time! It didn't take very long for our first born son, Jonathan Paul Elms to enter this world and when he made his appearance I couldn't have been happier. The years have flown by and it seems like yesterday that I had one of the greatest experiences in life. To bring our very own son into this world was more than my heart had words to say.

"Jonathan, you have brought so much joy to Dad and I. We could never thank you enough for being a son that has always honored and respected us. You have brought much joy into our lives with your talents in music, but when you decided that "music was not your calling" and accepted the call of God on your life to become a Preacher of the Gospel, we couldn't have been more thankful! Thank you for standing for truth and righteousness! Your life brings us much JOY! We pray this year is wonderful and the blessings of the Lord overflow abundantly!"

We love you!

Praise Him Anyhow

Upon hearing some disturbing news from a friend, my heart was saddened. I closed my eyes to just think and pray a moment, and the words to a song I haven't heard in years came to my mind. It is not one of the songs we hear all of the time, so when it invaded my thoughts it got my attention.

Lord, You are worthy.
Lord, You are worthy.
Lord, You are worthy to be praised.
For You have redeemed me, by Your great mercy.
Lord, You are worthy to be praised.

I then heard Sis. Nona Freeman saying..."Praise Him in the storm! Praise You, Jesus! Praise You, Jesus! I praise You, Jesus!"

Yes, even in the storm I will praise the Lord! Even when the sky is dark, I will praise Him. For trusting Him to take care of our needs, and our impossible situations is "ultimate faith". My human thinking see's "no way", but Jesus knows "the way". He can step into the deepest ocean of fear, and say "PEACE BE STILL" and the wind and waves will obey! Yes, when He walks into the scene of your situation, your situation will change immediately from darkness to light!

Trust Him...trust Him...that's what He wants. When He see's you're trusting Him in the midst of fear, He will bring you Peace. He's not wanting you to drown in the impossible! He doesn't walk away when you are fearful. In fact, because He understands that you feel out of control and helpless, He will come running to you to wrap you in a cocoon of peace and safety. He knows you're shaking. He knows you understand that you won't make it without Him. He knows you love Him! He knows you trust Him! He knows and...He loves you!

Trust Him! Love Him! Praise Him! Relax knowing He does all things well!

Oh! How I love Him! How I adore Him! My breath my sunshine, My all in all. The great Creator became my Savior. And all God's fullness dwelleth in Him.

Thank You, Jesus!

God's Peace

"God's abiding peace is in my soul today. Oh, I feel it now! Yes, I feel it now! He has taken all my doubts and fears away though I cannot tell you how."

The words to this song came to me just as I was getting ready to sign off and go to bed. Evidently, someone needs to read these words. I don't known what you are facing in your life, but God is there with you! When you're on the mountain top He is there. When you're in the valley, He is there! You do not have to be afraid, for He knew the storm was coming before it ever formed. Trust Him and lean into His strength. He will hold you up and shelter you from all harm!

"So let the storms rage high...the dark clouds rise...they won't worry me. For I'm sheltered safe within the arms of God. He walks with me and naught of earth shall harm me. For I'm sheltered in the arms of God.".

"Many things about tomorrow, I don't seem to understand. But, I know WHO holds tomorrow. And I know Who holds my hand."

Birthday Wishes

10-10-10 is a very special day for me, because I gave birth to a bouncing baby boy THIRTY THREE YEARS ago, and we named him Andrew Keith! It doesn't seem possible that its been THIRTY-THREE YEARS! All through his life I have noticed his tenderness toward God and his very kind, sweet nature. He may be 6'5" and be a big man in stature, but he is a Teddy bear at heart to those around him. He is a great Pastor to a wonderful group of people who have given him their love and support. We are thankful Andrew is being used by God to preach the Word and to love hurting souls, bringing them to know God. His strong resolve to "love truth as it has been handed to him" is heartwarming to see. Andrew, Dad and I could not be more thankful for the love you have given us and for your strength of character you have portrayed in many situations in life. In difficult times you have shown great strength and love for God. Thank you for the love and respect you have given us. You've always honored us in words and actions and we appreciate it more than we can say. We love you!

Also, EIGHT YEARS AGO...we were blessed again with a beautiful grand daughter that was born on her Daddy's birthday! Alayna Joy came into our hearts with JOY and HAPPINESS! She has been one of life's greatest joys!Andrew and Mandy named her right when they gave her the middle name JOY! Singing, dancing, giggling and happy...are a few of the things I think of when I think of Alayna. Alayna, we love you so much...we can't stand it! Keep living for God and bringing JOY to everyone around you. You're a little sweetheart to Papa and Mimi!

Then...I do not want to forget another special person that was born on this day...CAMERON LAYNE HOLLEY!
Happy Birthday, Cameron! It's hard to believe you are NINETEEN years old! We have watched you grow up and turn into a great young man with a heart after God. Uncle Wendell and I are so proud of you and love you so much!

The Work of God

It has been a good day! I love it when there's not a lot of things bothering my mind. I'm thankful!

I am in the process of preparing for the Texas District Board Meetings that start Monday. I take care of the snacks for the meeting and enjoy doing it. It's fun serving those who are leading our district.

My mind goes back many years ago when I was a teenager. The Western District Board (California) was meeting at our church in Fresno. Our church was over the food and snacks for the meeting and I was asked to "serve the board" in the "board room". It was such an honor to serve men of God and I couldn't believe I was one of the ones chosen to serve. When I look back over the years, and the respect I had for those men a wave of thankfulness floods my heart that I could serve our leaders way back then! I was just a young teenager, yet was given an opportunity to serve!

I'm amazed at how God prepares us for the future. That wasn't the only training I had in serving preacher's and their wives, but it was one of the highlights of my young life. The thought went through my head, "What if I accidentally spill something on one of them, or drop a plate of food on the floor"? I was so shy and afraid I would do something wrong, but my Mother told me I had to do it, so I did! I believe she was looking down through the years, and was doing her part to train me for whatever God had planned for my life. I'm sure she didn't know my husband was going to be the Texas District Secretary in the future, but she was training me for whatever I could do in the kingdom of God, and she wanted me to be ready.

The years have flown by, and I am no longer the young teenage girl that served another district board so long ago, but I still look forward to serving great men. Men who love the work of God. Men who love the organization they are part of. Men who love those they serve. Men who love the Kingdom of God and wants to see it flourish in these last days.

When the Texas District Board meet in the board room next week I am sure there will be a time of prayer before they begin. Over the past two and a half years there have been times I've been at the office, in the kitchen, and heard the familiar sound of prayer coming from the board room. It wasn't a "quiet" prayer, but heartfelt, deep prayer that ushered in the presence of God! In the middle of my role as "Martha" I felt the awesome power of God and wanted to fall to my knees in prayer.

The men that have been elected by the ministers of the Texas District do not come together to have a fun-filled time, although there will be some laughter, but when they meet they want God to be with them as they make decisions that affect our district. Maybe you could join with me and breathe a prayer for the Lord to be with every decision they make next week. I'm sure they would appreciate it.

As usual, I really wasn't sure what I was going to write about when I sat down at my computer. But, maybe I gave you a tiny glimpse of the "work of God and those who are leading us". From my perspective, we are in good hands in the Texas District and I feel safe!

If you need a reminder...

What a beautiful day it is! The weather is perfect! The sun is shining, but not too hot. A tiny breeze is blowing, but not too strong. The birds are chirping, but not too loudly. It's a very pleasant day! It reminds me of what Heaven must be like. Perfect!

I hope you are all having a wonderful day. I hope your stress level is way down. I hope your loved ones are doing well. I hope your spirit is peaceful and calm. I hope your body is feeling no pain. I hope your mind is alert. I hope your eyes are seeing clearly. I hope you're doing just FINE! :-)

I just dropped by to wish you a very beautiful day!

Don't be discouraged.
Don't dwell on the negative.
Don't listen for anything less than a "good report".
Don't let anger rule your thoughts.
Don't let anyone make you feel bad.
Don't worry about one thing!

Control your thoughts!
Control your words!
Control your heart!

Be joyful!
Be thankful!
Be sweet!
Be positive!
Be helpful!
Be a friend!

Love, no matter what!

Get out of yourself!
Reach to others!
Never lose hope!
As long as there is life and God...there is Hope!

So...whoever you are, whatever you're doing, if you need a "word of encouragement"...here it is...You are beautiful because God made YOU!

Now...go have a wonderful, magnificent, incredible day!

Memories Made - General Conference 2010

Some pictures that I really love all by themselves.

Sisters...Oh, how I love these two!

The Elms Brothers...David, Wendell, Bernard, and Royce

With my sisters-in-law...Linda, Sandy, Linda, Annette

Now the slide show...(there's a game that scrolls across the bottom of the slide show. Click the X to remove it so you can see the captions of each picture)

There is nothing like getting together with friends and family from all over the nation and world. I love it more than I can express!

Home Again

We have had an incredible week at General Conference! It feels a little strange to be sitting at home tonight. Usually, we have to travel 2-3 days to get back home, but since conference was in Houston, TX we only had two hours to travel. Wendell is unpacked and ready to hit the ground running in the morning, and I'm in the process of unpacking. I've done some, but as you know ladies usually take more to conference, so it takes us longer to put it all away.

The conference was outstanding! We heard powerful messages, and anointed singing. I left refreshed, excited, more thankful than I was already, and happy! Now, you can't make it any better than that! There are still reports being put together of the final count of those who received the Holy Ghost last night at the crusade. I've been hearing the number 3,000. There were people on foreign fields and here in the states that were watching via webcast, and the reports kept coming in of those who were receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost! I'm anxious to hear the final count, and all the testimonies of what God has done!

The South Texas District did an outstanding job hosting the event! Their hospitality was TEXAS STYLE! Thank you, South Texas!

It was wonderful seeing so many friends and family! Although you get tired in body, there is nothing more enjoyable than being with those you love.

We are home and already getting ready for another meeting next week. Time keeps marching on, so we must be about our Father's business.

It's Been Great

I'm stopping by this morning before laying my head on the pillow to say, General Conference has been wonderful! Have I told y'all lately that I absolutely LOVE being with my friends and family? :-) I am tired and my feet are screaming at me, but I really hate to see it all come to an end. We have one more day and then GC 2010 will be history. I will miss seeing everyone, but I know that one day we will all be together FOREVER! What a great and glorious day that will be!


- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Fun, Food, and Fellowship

The fun, food, and fellowship has begun! We arrived this afternoon, and when we were unloading we were greeted by one of our dearest friends. It's always great to see Bobbie! She's like family to me, so our time at General Conference started off just right. Later, Bro. Shoemake joined us and we had a wonderful time with more friends and family. It seems like no one can quit talking, hence the reason I am typing this post at 3:18 A.M! This will be my life for the next five days, and I love it!

Since my body is tired, and my eyes are about to close, I am going to try and sleep. I have to be up in a few hours for a breakfast I will be attending.

Now....IF my brain will just turn off.....Goodnight....

General Conference Time

We are finally at the threshold of the week we have all been preparing for. I've listened to ladies talk about going shopping, and listened to them as they said they couldn't find anything in the stores this year. Being one that does not like to shop, it takes everything in me to go to the mall. I had to go this year for a few things, and had to go by myself. Through the years I've enjoyed my sister Karla going with me, but this year it wasn't possible to do our "two day shopping trip". We did get to shop for a couple of hours in Wichita Falls when I went to a wedding a few weeks ago, and we had a good time. Karla "makes me" try on clothes that I would never take off the rack. When I have to go by myself I hear her voice. "Linda, you don't know if it's going to fit or not if you DON'T put it on! You never know...it just might work!" :) It's nice having a "baby sister" that loves to tell the "older sister" what to do! Anyway, I don't know where all that is leading as I type, but before I get too deep in the middle of "sibling love" I will move on.

General Conference is almost HERE! To be honest, of which I am all the time anyway, I didn't want conference to be in Houston! I have nothing against Houston, but I love to travel two or three days to get to conference. Since it's in Houston we only get to travel a couple of hours and we're there! Also, it's been HOT here in East Texas up until today! I haven't been in the mood to put on "fall clothes" since it's been so hot. Who wants to wear "fall clothes" when it's in the 90's and above? Not me! Besides, the humidity that lingers in the air is enough to suffocate anyone who is brave enough to step outside! Talk about being transparent! I'm going to get in trouble from the Houstonians that just might read my blog. Now...let me make myself and everyone else feel better!

Earlier in the evening I looked outside and saw the trees waving in the wind. That was a strange sight here in East Texas, but the wind had picked up over the afternoon. I had been hearing about the beautiful weather that had come in north of us, so I imagined that the wind was "blowing out the heat" and bringing some cool air to us. After a few hours I stepped outside. What a WELCOME I got!!!! There was a cool breeze blowing, and the temperature had dropped to 68-70 degrees! FALL had arrived!!!!! It was wonderful to step outside and not "smother" from the humidity and heat!

I've been checking the weather for Houston off and on this week. My "weather sources" are showing it's going to be a beautiful, sunshiny, week. If the weather man is right, it's going to be in the mid 80's during the day and will drop about 20 degrees in the evening. They are also saying there is going to be zero precipitation!!!! For those who do not live in this area you might not understand the importance of ZERO PRECIPITATION! But, please take it from me...if it rains in TEXAS...it's not a sprinkle or two. If it's going to rain, it's most likely going to be a GULLY-WASHER and there is no way to stay dry if you have to be in and out of buildings! So, just to let anyone know that may be wondering if I'm feeling better about conference being close by...I'm feeling pretty good about now! :) I really don't think I've ever been as relaxed about packing. The way I see it is, if I happen to leave something at home that I DESPERATELY NEED, I only have two hours to drive home to get it!

I am really looking forward to seeing all my family and friends. When we get to be in one place at the same time, my heart is HAPPY! When I see those I have not seen for a long time, it's like a big "family reunion" and that makes me HAPPY! When I step inside that huge auditorium where the best music you have ever heard is playing, and the singers start singing, I'm HAPPY! When I hear the voices of thousands of people as they worship Jesus Christ, King above all kings, I'm HAPPY! Then to top off the service, I have the privilege of hearing some great, anointed preaching, and my soul is HAPPY! When we make our way through the crowd with friends or family, and can barely get out the door because the ones you are with, and ourselves, get stopped by so many people that it takes us a LONG time to get out and go eat, I'm HAPPY! The closest thing to realizing what it's going to be like when we all get to Heaven has got to be when people from all over the world come together for the UNITED PENTECOSTAL CHURCH INTERNATIONAL GENERAL CONFERENCE! Yes, I'm HAPPY just thinking about it!

So...back to the stress of the shopping trips I've heard about and experienced. It doesn't matter to me whether you have on a new outfit or not. It's just going to be good seeing you! Your smile, your hug, and the warm hello's is all that really matters to me.

So....YA'LL HURRY UP AND GET HERE, because we're going to have a wonderful time, and I can't wait to see you!

Ponder

Tonight as I was going about the house taking care of things when a word I have not heard in a long time popped into my head. PONDER! Upon entering my mind, my mind started recalling things from the past. After awhile I decided to sit down and look the word up.

PONDER - 1. to consider something deeply and thoroughly; meditate. 2. to weigh careful in the mind; consider thoughtfully.

I can see him sitting in the living room. There is "noise" in the kitchen as supper is being cooked. There is "noise" coming from one of the bedrooms where music is being played. There's a young girl sitting at the piano practicing her piano lessons and there's "noise" because the "piano music" was not being played correctly. There he sits, in the middle of "noise", but he doesn't seem to notice. He's sitting quietly, looking at nothing, or no one. Upon seeing this scene, the young girl goes to the kitchen to inquire of her Mother. "What is Daddy doing? Why is he just sitting there and staring off?" The Mother had seen this many times throughout their marriage and knew exactly how to answer. "Your Daddy is meditating." That was quite a big word for the little girl to understand, so she asked, "What does THAT mean?" The Mother explained..."That means your Daddy is thinking about something important. He may be thinking about what he is going to preach tonight. He probably has a lot on his mind. Don't disturb him! He needs to be alone right now." The little girl nods her head, goes and looks at her Daddy again, but she wasn't about to disturb him, because he was "meditating".

This picture is painted vividly in my mind and it will never be thrown away. I remember it as if it were yesterday! I really believe that some of the greatest messages I've heard have come from men and women of God who took time to "ponder", and in those times God spoke to them and developed a message filled with "power, passion, and anointing".

Now, as I look back, I wish I could have crawled into my Daddy's mind and read the many thoughts that were there. He was a powerful preacher of the Word! He never had a diploma stating he had a doctors degree in theology, but he didn't need it. He was a studier of the Word of God. He loved talking about God and His Word more than anything else! He loved preaching and ministering to people. No, he may not have been "smart" in the world's eyes, but he really didn't care what they thought. He wasn't planning on staying here for very long anyway, but while he was here he wanted to preach the gospel to all who would listen. He preached without fear or favor, and it didn't matter if you agreed with him or not. When he had a word from the Lord, he wasn't fearful of man or the false doctrines that are destroying "relationship with Almighty God". Many years down the road I'm so glad I didn't interrupt when Daddy was "meditating, pondering, communing" with God! The messages I heard him preach through life, are what gave me the desire to have my own relationship with God. They are what made me WANT to be saved above all else! They are what gave me a glimpse of Heaven. Daddy made Heaven so real, and beautiful that nothing is worth me not going!

Daddy is not the only preacher I have seen "ponder...meditate". I have watched my husband as he was "in another world", and knew that this was not the time to disturb his thoughts. I have watched our sons, Jonathan and Andrew sit and stare! Oh yes, I recognized it! I knew they were being drawn into another place. I knew when they step to the pulpit that they would have the same "power, passion, and anointing" as their father, and grandfather.

In a few hours we will all gather in a sanctuary to spend time with God in Morning Worship. Preachers everywhere will bring the scriptures to life as they preach with "power, passion and anointing". I'm sure there were little girls and boys that watched their Daddy today, as he sat in the living room, staring off into another world. Mother's were asked the same question I asked..."Mommy...what is Daddy doing? He's just staring! "Oh honey...Daddy is meditating. Don't bother him."

Yes...the "cycle of life" continues....